HP scoops $2.5bn NASA computing contract

HP have snatched a NASA computing contract worth $2.5bn, though it seems the kit supplied to the space agency will be staying on the ground rather than headed into orbit. According to NASA spokesperson Michael Sweigart, the deal covers "basically everything that's plugged into the wall that's IT," including PCs, software and peripherals.

Lockheed Martin had previously been supplying the NASA contract, but were pipped to the post by HP's bid. The company still supplies other contracts at the agency, however, and is responsible for NASA's computer networks and data centers.